Restaurant prepares for 18th anniversary

Mexican and Tex-Mex restaurants are easy to find in the Houston area, but the owners of Tomball's Los Arcos aim to take authentic Mexican dining to the next level through both the restaurant's menu and atmosphere.

The eatery's menu, which is most famous for its enchiladas, fajitas and margaritas, is directly inspired by family recipes developed in Mexico. Owner Felipe Gurrusquieta said he regularly travels back to Mexico, where he learns of new culinary trends that he can incorporate into his menu.

"We're innovating every day and coming up with new things," he said. "Our most recent addition to the menu is the stuffed avocado, which has already become a hit."

Gurrusquieta, who opened Los Arcos in 1995 with his two brothers, said his restaurant's success has been like a dream come true. He attributes his popularity with return customers to three main principles.

"We make sure the food is always fresh and tastes good, that we keep the restaurant very clean, and that we have good service," he said. "I tell all our employees to treat our customers like they are a part of our family."

Los Arcos is decorated in a way that is meant to make patrons feel like they are in Mexico. Gurrusquieta describes the dcor as "fiesta-style" with colorful clothes and festive streamers. Other art and decorative items are inspired by both ancient Aztec civilizations and the towns in Mexico where Gurrusquieta and his family lived before they moved to the Houston area.

Every year, Los Arcos celebrates Cinco De Mayo with live music and menu specials. The biggest celebration of the year, however, is its anniversary on June 11, Gurrusquieta said.

Seating at Los Arcos includes indoor tables and booths, outdoor patio tables and a banquet room that can be reserved for large parties. The restaurant also hosts live music every Friday and Saturday night.

"We just want to make a place where people can have fun, relax and feel comfortable," Gurrusquieta said. "Based on what our customers tell us, it seems like we are doing a good job."

Owner Recommendations

El Presidente Platter—One steak fajita or chicken breast topped with Monterey Jack cheese and three jumbo shrimp, served with guacamole, pico de gallo, rice, tortillas and charro beans ($11.95)

Camaron Los Arcos—Four grilled jumbo shrimp and four jalapeos wrapped in bacon and stuffed with Monterey Jack cheese, served on a bed of rice, lettuce, tomatoes, sliced avocados and charro beans ($12.95)

Acapulco Dinner—One beef taco, guacamole salad, chile con queso puff and two beef or cheese enchiladas, served with rice and refried beans ($9.49)

Stuffed Avocado—Golden deep fried avocado, stuffed with chicken or beef fajita meat, topped with Ranchero sauce and Monterey Jack cheese, served with rice and refried beans ($9.95, add shrimp for $10.95)

Super Finest Margarita—Made with choice of Patron, Don Julio, Herradura, Tres Generaciones, Sauza, Cazadores, Corazon, Reserva 1921, Don Lunas or Hornitos ($7.29)

Customer Comments

"I like the food, the prices and the friendly staff. I come here about twice a week." -Matt Lawson

"I love the food and the margaritas. This is my favorite place. I can just come in and relax." -Carrie Dolich

"The nachos with red sauce are my favorite. I come all the way from Anderson to eat here." -David Robinson

Upcoming Celebrations

Los Arcos will be celebrating its 18th anniversary June 11. Owner Felipe Gurrusquieta said he will bring in a mariachi band to perform live. The restaurant will have door prizes and giveaways for patrons. Two liquor companies—Republic Beverage Company and Glacier Beverage Company—will be on site letting customers taste new products. An upcoming Cinco de Mayo celebration will also feature menu specials.

28048 Business 249, Tomball, 281-351-9677, www.losarcosmexrest.com

• Sun.–Thu. 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
• Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m.